Free Yourself from Headaches

Advancing a drug-free, natural approach, Stromfeld, a chiropractor and holistic health practitioner, and Weil, a freelance writer, counter the current medical practice of treating persistent headaches with beta blockers and other potent chemicals. Like conventional physicians, the authors emphasize prevention as much as relief. Those already acquainted with alternative healing will note that the book indicts many of holistic medicine's usual suspects: candida albicans, food allergies, deep muscle tension. Stromfeld and Weil's valuable contribution, however, is an emphasis on pragmatic solutions, with numerous tips and methods that are readily incorporated into a busy lifestyle. Simple self-help techniques, such as creative imagery, are explained clearly. They also suggest becoming a ``massage buddy'' with a friend or relative when finances prohibit seeking professional masseurs to help relieve headache-inducing stress. Many chapters include information on how to locate health practitioners who work in a particular treatment modality. (June)